Disability Living Allowance
National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society booklet
‘A self-help guide to claiming Disability Living Allowance for adults with rheumatoid arthritis’
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is an important benefit for some people with rheumatoid arthritis. It helps to cover the extra costs that result from the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, in particular the costs of care and getting around. You do not need to have a carer or someone helping you to qualify – the benefit is based on the help you need rather than the help you actually receive.
DLA is not taxable and you don't need to have paid National Insurance contributions to get it. You can claim it if you are still working, and it is not means-tested. This means that it is not affected by any earnings or benefits you receive or savings you may have. Neither is it treated as income for other benefits that are means-tested, such as Income Support, Housing Benefit and tax credits. In fact an award of DLA can lead to higher levels of these benefits being paid. DLA can also act as a passport to other benefits, such as Carer’s Allowance.
To claim DLA you will have to complete a long self-assessment form. On the plus side, it means that your opinion is extremely important, and you can give detailed information about your needs.
NRAS has produced a booklet to provide adults (aged 16-64) who have rheumatoid arthritis with a brief explanation of DLA and a guide to completing the form. It can also be used by carers of anyone with rheumatoid arthritis and any professionals working with people with the condition.
How to get a copy
You can get your copy of the booklet by contacting us enquiries@nras.org.uk by calling us on 0845 458 3969 or you can download a copy by following this link click here
(All new members of NRAS are asked if they would like a copy when they receive their ‘Welcome Pack’.)
Children under 16 can also claim DLA, but there is a different claim-form for them to use. The Disability Alliance have produced a guide to claiming DLA for children: 'Tell it like it is!' You can get a copy by contacting them on 020 7247 8776 or click here.